King George VI 1936-1952

King George VI's reign from 1936 to 1952 saw significant changes in British coinage, reflecting the tumultuous times of World War II and post-war reconstruction. In 1937, new coin designs were introduced, featuring the King's effigy by sculptor Thomas Humphrey Paget on the obverse and various symbolic representations on the reverse. During the war, metal shortages led to the issuance of emergency coins, such as the silver threepence, brass threepence, and the nickel-brass sixpence. In 1947, the circulation of silver coins was reduced, and cupro-nickel became the standard alloy for shilling and florin. The post-war period saw further changes in design and metal compositions. In 1950, the famous British farthing, depicting a wren, was last minted before being demonetized in 1960. King George VI's coinage reflects the challenges and adaptations faced by the British economy during a time of war and reconstruction, making them historically significant and valuable collectibles for numismatists and history enthusiasts.